The relationship between general equilibrium models with infinitely-lived agents and overlapping generations models, and some applications

Abstract

We prove that a two-cycle equilibrium in a general equilibrium model with infinitely-lived agents (GEILA) constitutes an equilibrium in an overlapping generations (OLG) model. Conversely, an equilibrium in an OLG model that satisfies additional conditions can be embedded in an equilibrium in a GEILA model. Our framework, which includes three assets (physical capital, a Lucas tree, and fiat money), encompasses both exchange and production economies. As an application, we demonstrate that equilibrium indeterminacy and rational asset price bubbles can arise not only in OLG models but also in GEILA models.